Work activities and processes may result in harmful substances contaminating the air in the form of dust, mist, vapour, gas or fume. For example, when: –
- Cutting a material such as stone or wood
- Using a product containing volatile solvents
- Handling a dusty powder
- Welding
Workers may also need to work in areas where oxygen levels are or may become low, for example, in confined spaces, trenches, or silos.
Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is a particular type of personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to protect the wearer from breathing in harmful substances or from oxygen-deficient atmospheres when other controls are either not possible or insufficient on their own.
If you require further information, or guidance in relation to this subject, please contact KGS Ltd via email: [email protected] or Tel: 01443 740306.
Written by Daniel Prosser, MSc CMIOSH L4DipFRA OSHCR
Health, Safety and Wellbeing Professional